Introducing the Funny Five

The Big Five concept, though incredibly popular, has certain limitations. So we thought we'd try something different...

With controversial origins in the hunting fraternity, the term ‘Big Five’ denotes the animals traditionally viewed as most desirable to spot on an African safari. However, many believe that this represents a simplification of the beauty and emotion of a safari and neglects the vast array of other equally interesting and ecologically-important animals.

Other monikers have been suggested, such as the Big Seven (Big Five plus Great White Shark and Southern Right Whale) and the Super Seven (Big Five plus Cheetah and Wild Dog). However these lists still focus on animals whose presence evokes a sense of danger, thrill and unpredictability. When it comes to family friendly safaris, this element of danger often excludes children and even some young adults from the safari experience.

Samara is a family-owned and family-run business that welcomes children of all ages. We firmly believe in educating the next generation of passionate environmentalists. In a world of rapidly diminishing biodiversity, we desperately need to raise children who care about and understand nature in all its glory. And in our experience, one of the best ways to get kids engaged is through humour.

So, without further ado, we present to you... the Funny Five.

Chosen for their quirky disposition, unusual looks and sometimes hilarious behaviour, the Funny Five is a novel and family-friendly alternative to the Big Five. We have made sure to pick animals whose nature, diet and habits pose a minimal amount of danger in approaching and tracking them on foot (always with trained guides), so that kids can have a safe and enjoyable safari experience. We have also chosen species that live across sub-Saharan Africa, so as not to restrict the list to specific wildlife found only at Samara or in the Karoo.